Family of engineering technician appeal for witnesses following his death from asbestos-related cancer

31 March 2016

Patrick was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2014

The family of a BECTU member is urging anyone who has worked at aerial transmission sites all over the UK to come forward with information about the working conditions, following the premature death of Patrick Smith.

Patrick, from Storrington, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer, in 2014. He worked as a technical engineer between 1977 and 2014 at locations including Wenvoe, Wood Norton, Daventry, Sutton Coldfield, Wooferton, Washford, Ascension Island, Droitwich and Bressay.

The sites were owned by the BBC and operated by Arqiva, previously named the Independent Broadcasting Authority and National Transcommunications.

Following his diagnosis, Patrick contacted his union, BECTU, and instructed industrial disease specialists Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation.

However, Patrick’s condition worsened and he passed away, leaving behind his partner of 31 years. Thompsons Solicitors is now pursuing the case on behalf of Patrick’s family.

Jackie Wood, from Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Sadly, Patrick died in the early stages of his case, before it was possible to gather detailed evidence about the technical aspects of his work.

“We are appealing for anyone who worked at the transmission sites mentioned above from 1977 to 2014 to come forward, particularly those with expertise in radio transmitters, klystrons and resistor mats, who may be able to provide valuable information about the presence of asbestos.

“To help Patrick’s family it is vital we piece together a full picture of his working life and contact with asbestos.”

Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.

The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.

There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.